May 17, 2012

09:42 AM

June 1 Deadline for Young Heroes Award

Do you know a young person age 18 or younger who has worked for positive change at school or in the community? Through June 1, the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia is seeking nomination for its annual Young Heroes Award, sponsored by TD Bank.

The program salutes youths who have dedicated their time or volunteered to help others, promoted appreciation for diversity or participated in conflict resolution or peer prevention. Their contributions can come through art or creative writing, leadership, volunteer work, political involvement or peer mediation.

The top winner will receive a $1,000 grand prize. All winners will be honored at an awards ceremony. They will receive a medallion and a variety of gifts and will be featured on a plaque at the Museum’s Young Heroes Exhibit.

I would like to nominate Hunter Ballas, age 8 of Landenberg, Pennsylvania. He wrote and published a book called Finlay's Garden with his mom after he lost his younger brother to SIDS so that he could help other children cope with the loss of a loved one in a way that is not scary and that brings peace. Hunter travels to local colleges and schools to inspire children to use art and communication to deal with their feelings. I carry the book he published in my store and I'm constantly amazed at how many adults find his book not only inspirational, but healing. It is amazing how a little boy that's not even nine yet is able to connect with adults and children and inspire families to pull together during times of loss and hardship. His outlook is amazing and he is wise beyond his years. Hunter and his mom have donated books to hospitals where children are terminally ill, funeral homes, and non-profit organizations. They don't make money off of their book sales but do turn around and donate books back to families who experience loss, schools, and special education programs. As a local business owner, I can say this child is outstanding and always goes the extra mile to help others. He is also a dedicated volunteer with the DFRC of Delaware that helps children with disabilities notice their A-bilities. Hunter is just one of those kids that goes the extra mile and constantly helps his peers and adults realize that being different sometimes opens the door to being creative - and special. Thanks - Kim Mckee